"When the races started, we noted that there was very little lag and glitching to speak of, which was nice. Although there was an occasional hitch that may have caused our rivals to jump or stutter, it was usually mild (and may very well vanish in the final build)."

They're fine. I actually prefer an always connected experience.
I'd really prefer an offline way to play, but its not a bother.
I don't really like them, and am more reluctant to buy a game because of it.
I won't buy them. I want my games offline.